In one corner — weighing in as the named leader of Obama’s National Economic Council — is Lawrence Summers, boasting a “have-your-cake-and-eat-it-too” treasure chest of hope.

In the other corner — weighing in as one of those lonely voices in the wilderness who predicted the current mess — is Peter Schiff, offering nothing more impressive than a “pain-before-gain” bucket of cold water.

I predict this match will go the full 15 rounds with no knock outs. My gut hopes Summers wins on points. My brain tells me Schiff probably will. (Perhaps Ronald Brownstein should referee.)